Review of The Searchers (1956) by Dylan M — 14 Nov 2009
The film â??The Searchersâ?? was an entertaining movie; Ethan Edwards (John Wayne) showcases his cold killer side and his warm humanistic side. The reformation of his character throughout the film made me think war had hardened him.
His feelings toward Martin Pawley (Jeffrey Hunter) also change throughout the film. At first he made it clear that he was not at all tolerant toward Martinâ??s part Native American genealogy. However, he quickly became more tolerant toward Martin after they bonded out in the desert for five years.
They shared the same ambition to find Debbie Edwards, Ethanâ??s niece, who was kidnapped by the same Native Americans killed the remaining members of the Edwardâ??s family. Ethan was a very proud man who would die for dignity.
He had respect for the law but he didnâ??t really want it to get in his way when seeking revenge. Ethan later finds Debbie to be less civilized and attempted to shoot her on one occasion. It seems he saw her as less than human at that point and feared she we live like this for the rest of her life; I suppose he could not have that happen.
This movie seemed more violent than other contemporary movies, and apparently this movieâ??s VistaVision visual resolution was impressive. The detail of VistaVision let the audience feel the emotions from the expression of the actors/actresses faces.
This review of The Searchers (1956) was written by Dylan M on 14 Nov 2009.
The Searchers has generally received very positive reviews.
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